Famous Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere before
For those who mainly listen to Japanese music, foreign songs might not feel very familiar.
However, these days, hit Western tracks are used all over the place—as BGM for TV shows and social media videos, in commercials, and more—so even people who don’t usually listen to Western music have probably heard plenty of it.
In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of those universally recognizable Western songs all at once.
You’ll likely find tracks you’ve heard but never knew the title of, as well as songs whose titles or artist names you’ve seen but never actually listened to.
Take this opportunity to discover the appeal of Western music!
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Famous Western songs everyone knows: A compilation of classic tunes you’ve heard somewhere (21–30)
bad guyBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish, an artist from the United States, has songs that are massive hits around the world.
Released in March 2019, this track stands out for its unique sense of rhythm and catchy melody—it’s unforgettable once you hear it.
The distinctive low bassline makes even those who aren’t very into music find themselves naturally keeping the beat.
The lyrics portray a bold, provocative woman, making it a song packed with her allure.
Paired with Billie Eilish’s uniquely expressive vocals, it’s easy to see why the track is loved by such a wide audience.
Even if you don’t usually listen to Western pop, why not take this opportunity to give it a listen?
I Was Born To Love YouQueen
The song by the British band Queen was released in 1985 as a solo work by Freddie Mercury.
Characterized by a driving melody and passionate vocals, it sings of unconditional love for a beloved person.
After Freddie’s death, Queen re-edited the track and included it on the 1995 album Made in Heaven.
In Japan, it was used in 1996 for a Kirin Ichiban Shibori commercial, and in 2004 it was chosen as the theme song for the TV drama Pride.
Even those not familiar with Western music have likely heard it on TV or in commercials.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to feel positive or need a boost of energy.
Western songs everyone knows: a roundup of famous tunes you’ve heard somewhere (31–40)
Fight SongRachel Platten
This song, which carries the message “It’s okay, I can still fight,” is a worldwide hit released in 2015 by American artist Rachel Platten.
Reflecting her own struggles and hopes in her music career, it resonated with many people and was used in a variety of contexts.
It was frequently played during Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign and became an iconic track.
Its universal theme of believing in one’s inner strength and moving forward without giving up likely struck a chord with countless listeners.
Even those who aren’t very familiar with Western pop music have probably heard it at least once!
Shake It OffTaylor Swift
Even if you’ve never actually listened to Taylor Swift’s songs, many of you probably still know them, right? This track is included on her album 1989, released in October 2014, and it marked a turning point toward pop music.
With a bright, catchy feel and a distinctive saxophone line, its memorable melody easily sticks in your head.
The song carries a message about not being swayed by negative opinions and moving forward with your head held high.
It’s the perfect pick-me-up when you want a change of pace or a boost of energy!
Christmas TimeBryan Adams
Bryan Adams is a singer-songwriter who has also made a name for himself as a photographer.
He’s known for his distinctly husky voice, and his music is primarily rooted in pop rock.
“Christmas Time” is one of his holiday numbers.
Although he boasts a four-octave vocal range, this song also spans a fairly wide range, from mid2G to hihiA.
That said, the vocal line itself is very simple, with frequent repetitions.
Plus, since the key can be lowered, anyone with a decent range should be able to sing it well.
FireworkKaty Perry
When it comes to signature songs by American pop icon Katy Perry, this one is undoubtedly it.
With a chorus that swells in the most satisfying way, it’s a standout anthem of the 2010s.
Released in October 2010, it became a massive global hit, topping the Billboard charts.
Carrying a message about cherishing your true self, it resonates with people from all walks of life.
It’s also been widely used in TV commercials and as a movie insert song, shining in a variety of settings.
I highly recommend it as a track that gives you courage when you’re feeling down or losing confidence.
ThrillerMichael Jackson
A story about terrifying creatures that appear only in the dead of night, and the resolve to protect a loved one from those eerie monsters.
It’s a track from the album Thriller, released in November 1982 by Michael Jackson from the United States.
The music video is a film-like work running a full 14 minutes, memorable for its zombie dance.
It caused a sensation on MTV at the time and won eight awards at the 1984 Grammys.
Listening to it as Halloween approaches sends a chill down your spine while stirring a powerful determination to protect the one you love.